Chile most prepared for climate change in Latin America

No one knows exactly what the future holds, but things are always changing. That is why it is good to look ahead and be prepared—and in the case of climate change, Chile is looking far more ready for the future than anyone else in Latin America.

According to the latest ranking by the University of Notre Dame Global Adaptation Index (ND-GAIN), Chile ranks 25th in the world and first in Latin America for overall preparedness for climate change and global climate challenges. The ranking compares readiness and vulnerability.

Formerly conducted by the Global Adaptation Institute in Washington, D.C., the program moved to the prestigious University of Notre Dame in Indiana. It focuses on a country’s resilience to, and ability to react to, issues “brought about by overcrowding, resource-constraints and climate disruption.”

According to the GAIN ranking, Chile’s low vulnerability and above average resilience makes it poised to succeed in the face of climate change.

“Adaptation challenges still exist, but Chile is well positioned to adapt. Chile is the 44th least vulnerable country and the 11th most ready country,” the report says.

At 25th, Chile followed only the United States and Canada in the Western Hemisphere. Uruguay trailed behind at 33 then Costa Rica at 50.

In addition to be prepared for climate change, Chile is also actively working to reduce harmful emissions and promote greener consumption through renewable energy projects such as wind and solar farms in the North, and conservation projects like new national reserves in the South. Just this month Chile welcomed its newest National Park and wildlife reserve in Tierra del Fuego, Yendegaia National Park at the very southern tip of Chile.